Dale Hanson

1980 Iowa Wrestling Hall of Fame Inductee

April 9, 1918 – October 5, 1942

Dale “PeeWee” Hanson, a distinguished figure in American wrestling, was born and raised in Cresco, Iowa. His journey into wrestling began in 1932 during his freshman year at Cresco High School under the mentorship of coach Dave Bartelma. Initially, Hanson’s small stature prevented him from competing in the 85-pound weight class, earning him the affectionate nickname “PeeWee.” Despite early challenges, he demonstrated remarkable resilience and determination. By his sophomore year, Hanson began competing, and after a few initial losses, he embarked on an extraordinary winning streak, remaining undefeated in dual meets for the remainder of his high school career.

Under Bartelma’s guidance, Hanson clinched two Iowa State Wrestling Championships, solidifying his reputation as a formidable wrestler. In 1935, both Hanson and Bartelma transitioned to the University of Minnesota, where Bartelma took on the role of head wrestling coach. This unique continuity allowed Hanson to further hone his skills under a familiar and trusted mentor.

At the University of Minnesota, Hanson’s wrestling prowess reached new heights. Competing from 1938 to 1940, he became the program’s first two-time Big Ten Champion, securing titles at 128 pounds in 1939 and 1940. In 1939, Hanson achieved national acclaim by winning the NCAA Division I Championship at 128 pounds and was honored as the Most Outstanding Wrestler of the tournament. His collegiate career was marked by an impressive 43 consecutive dual meet victories, underscoring his dominance on the mat.

Beyond his collegiate achievements, Hanson was a two-time NCAA finalist and played a pivotal role in elevating the University of Minnesota’s wrestling program to national prominence. During his tenure, the Golden Gophers secured three consecutive top-10 finishes at the NCAA Championships and maintained a commendable 20-4-1 dual meet record. His contributions were instrumental in establishing Minnesota as a competitive force in collegiate wrestling.

In his senior year, Hanson enlisted in the U.S. Army Air Corps, demonstrating his commitment to serving his country. He was stationed at Pearl Harbor during the infamous attack on December 7, 1941, and later participated in the pivotal Battle of Midway in June 1942. Tragically, on October 5, 1942, First Lieutenant Hanson lost his life while serving as a co-pilot of a B-17 bomber during a mission over Rabaul, New Britain. He was just 24 years old.

In recognition of his outstanding contributions to the sport, Dale Hanson was posthumously inducted into the Iowa Wrestling Hall of Fame in 1980. Further honoring his legacy, the University of Minnesota inducted him into the M Club Hall of Fame in 2009, acknowledging his pivotal role in the early success of their wrestling program.

Dale “PeeWee” Hanson’s life story is a testament to unwavering dedication, athletic excellence, and patriotic sacrifice. His legacy continues to inspire wrestlers and sports enthusiasts, exemplifying the profound impact one individual can have both on and off the mat.

Dale Hanson was inducted into the Iowa Wrestling Hall of Fame in 1980 with Bill Nelson.